Construction quality refers to the need for projects to be completed under defined guidelines. These guidelines are known as the Scope of Work. There have been industrywide calls for improving quality in construction in the wake of disasters such as the tragic Grenfell fire and the closures of schools in Edinburgh. The longevity and lifespan of construction are crucial for health and safety, plus it will help to save on repairs in the long run.
Building for longevity is a key principle to building sustainably. Once a building has been completed, there should be absolute confidence in the final structure, with no need to revisit it in the future. While other sustainability principles encompass recycled materials, integrating renewable energy and offsetting carbon usage – all of which are important – longevity is the primary goal.
Why is quality important in construction?
As well as the crucial health and safety element, businesses will be associated with the quality of their projects. So, if buildings are poorly executed, this can be reflected extremely poorly on the business as a whole.
Taking the time to establish high-quality finishes across a project will count towards the long-term success of the building constructed. As a result, this will help with maintaining and attracting clients and future projects. Here’s what should be taken into account when building for longevity.
Material quality
High-quality materials are a good place to start. And while this may be more of an investment in the short term, this will pay off in the long term and reduce the likelihood of any issues that could reflect badly on businesses.
Finishes
The application of finishes and coatings can help to extend the lifespan of construction projects. Using resins like these to seal woods and ensure strong adhesive bonds can help with the endurance of a construction project while helping the materials last longer and remain rigid.
Timeframes
As with any project, it’s important not to rush the planning process. There’s a reason why it can take a significant amount of time and especially for something as important as construction. There are multiple safety checks and audits to be completed before work begins. A small timeframe could compromise the quality at this stage of the project and set the standard for the remainder of the construction process.
Training and expertise
Similarly to the planning process, it’s important not to rush the training phase of the project. Construction companies need to be sure that everyone is up to speed with the expectations and principles behind the plan in place. The team should be knowledgeable and trained to a high level to avoid any mistakes. Compiling a team that is capable of handling this is key.